Hep C Tests and Treatment

Hep C

Hep C tests and treatment

Why testing is a “must”

The good news about Hep C is that if it’s caught in time, it can be cured—and the treatment is simple. The problem is that many Hep C symptoms are common to other illnesses. That’s why Hep C testing is so critical—and why many health guidelines now recommend that more people get tested.

Hep C test results either come back “positive” (you have been infected with the hepatitis C virus) or “negative” (you do not have Hep C).

Tests for screening and diagnosis

A simple blood test will tell you whether or not you have Hep C, and many private insurers cover this test for baby boomers.

However, the test is not part of your routine physical exam, so you need to ask your doctor for it. Once you have the lab order from your doctor, schedule an appointment at one of our more than 2,200 Patient Service Centers.

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One blood draw, two types of Hep C tests:

The Antibody Test shows whether you have ever been exposed to the hepatitis C virus by detecting antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. Antibodies are proteins our bodies make that attack foreign germs if someone has been infected.

The Viral Load Test (also known as the HCV-RNA test) detects the actual hepatitis C virus in your blood, and also shows how much of it you have. This confirms diagnosis, and helps monitor your progress on treatment.

Treatment for Hep C

If you test positive for Hep C, the good news is it’s treatable. The even better news is that treatment is simple. Hep C is treated with medications called “direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)” that help remove the virus from your body.

There are many medications available to treat Hep C, including newer options that are more effective and have fewer side effects than older medications. In fact, it’s thought that in the past few years, more people have been cured of Hep C than in the previous decade.

Learn about Hep C treatments

Fast facts about Hep C treatment

The goal of treatment is to clear the virus from your body. This happens when no hepatitis C virus is found in your blood 3 months after finishing treatment.

Decisions about treatment (what type, how long) are based on many factors, like the type of hepatitis C virus you have, the condition of your liver, and other health concerns. Ask your doctor what treatments are best for you.